Endometriosis related pain

Endometriosis Related Pain: Understanding the Causes and Treatments

Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue that normally appear in the uterus grows outside the uterus. It commonly affects women in their reproductive years and can cause pain, fatigue, and infertility. Endometriosis pain can run the gamut from slight cramping to severe pain that impairs daily activities. Here’s a look at what causes this pain, the ways you can manage it, and when to speak with your doctor for treatment.

What Causes Endometriosis Pain?

Endometriosis pain can be caused due to inflammation in pelvic organs, i.e., the intestines, rectum, bladder, and ovaries. The inflammation is caused by queues of growths that are provoked by these pieces of tissue. These growths are stimulated each time a woman has her menstrual cycle. When the cycle ends, these growths respond by releasing hormones that initiate moderate to continuous pain. The pain may range from menstrual cramps to severe pelvic pain that can last several days.

How Can I Manage Endometriosis Pain?

There are several tactics you can use to help manage endometriosis pain.

• Heat: Taking a hot bath or applying a heating pad to the pelvic area can often reduce endometriosis-related pain.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can be beneficial in managing your endometriosis pain. Low-impact activities like yoga and swimming can lower inflammation and increase endorphins (happy hormones) that lower your pain.
• Diet: Eating a diet that is low in refined sugars and high in fruits and vegetables can help reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis.
• Pain Relief Medication: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen can provide relief from endometriosis-related pain.
• Stress Reduction: Stress can worsen endometriosis-related pain. Taking time to focus on relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help relax the muscles and prevent pain flare-ups.

When Should I Speak to My Doctor About Endometriosis Pain?

If you are having persistent endometriosis pain that you cannot manage using lifestyle modifications, then you should speak to your doctor. Your doctor can provide you with a plan for medical treatment and/or referral to a specialist. Some of the treatment options your doctor may recommend include:

• Hormone Therapy: Your doctor may prescribe hormone medications that can help reduce pain and the growth of endometriosis.
• Surgery: Your doctor may also recommend that you get surgery to remove your endometriosis growths. This can help reduce pain but can also increase your risk of infertility.
• Pain Medication: Your doctor may also prescribe pain medication to help reduce your pain.

Endometriosis-related pain can be distressing and difficult to manage. However, with the right lifestyle modifications and medical treatment, you can get relief from your pain. Speak to your doctor if you are having persistent pain, so that they can provide you with the best treatment options.